Job Title: Operations Coordinator — Ice Rinks (Cork-based)
Reports To: Operations Manager
Location: Office, Little Island Cork with regular travel to other sites as required
Contract Type:Full-time, Fixed Term (Seasonal with potential for extension) August - February
Salary: €30,000–€42,000 per annum (pro-rata for seasonal role) dependent on experience
About the Role:
Cool Running Events (Iceskating.ie & Zipit.ie) has been operating nationwide pop-up ice rinks since 2007 and we now have an exciting opportunity for the right individual who wants to be part of a fast-moving team whose focus is on creating a seamless experience for customers over the winter season.
We are seeking an enthusiastic, organised and hands-on Operations Coordinator to join our operations team for our seasonal ice rink business. Based in Cork, you will be the primary contact for site managers and assistant managers, ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of our 3 ice rinks located in Cork and Dublin. You will collaborate closely with the Operations Manager and the wider CRE team to deliver a first-class visitor experience across all sites. This role is ideal for a freelancer or project manager, with the potential for year-on-year involvement. For individuals seeking employment beyond the initial six-month period, there may be further opportunities for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities:
* Act as the primary operational point of contact for the Cork-based ice rink, while providing remote or on-site support to Dublin sites as required.
* Regularly liaise with and support the Operations Manager to ensure seamless communication and alignment across all sites.
* Oversee the operational readiness of ice rinks, including:
*Pre-season planning and setup,
*Supporting recruitment and onboarding of seasonal staff,
*Organising and delivering staff training,
*In-season operations and maintenance,
*Post-season de-rig and review
* Provide hands-on support during the build and breakdown phases at all sites, ensuring timelines and quality standards are met.
* Liaise daily with site managers and staff, troubleshooting operational issues and escalating to the Operations Manager when appropriate.
* Support site managers in achieving key performance indicators (KPIs) and maintaining smooth, efficient, and safe operations.
* Monitor and enforce Health & Safety procedures in collaboration with the Operations Manager.
* Track and follow up on first aid incidents to ensure appropriate action and documentation by site managers.
* Ensure full compliance with company policies, site-specific risk assessments, and licensing/legal requirements.
* Work closely with suppliers, contractors, vendors, and partners to ensure timely delivery and service quality.
* Assist with staff scheduling, stock control, and weekly reporting. Help site managers monitor and control operational costs, including wages, in line with set budgets.
* Be available on-site during peak times (including limited evenings and weekends) and provide 'on-call' support in the event of urgent issues such as weather-related closures or incidents.
* Support the delivery of a consistent, high-quality visitor experience across all rinks.
* Support any sustainability initiatives and look for ways to optimise energy usage, waste management, and environmentally responsible practices.
* Ensure timely and effective communication between departments (marketing, finance, HR) to support overall rink performance.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
* Proven experience in an operations, facilities, hospitality or event coordination role (experience with temporary venues or attractions a bonus).
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritise. Practical, solutions-focused, and calm under pressure.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
* Flexible, with a "can do" attitude and willingness to work unsociable hours when required (especially during build, de-rig, and peak trading periods).
* Full driving licence and access to own vehicle are essential
* Forklift license is a bonus - but not essential.
* Familiarity with ice rink operations is a bonus but not required — full training provided.
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